The ninth edition of the Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) is just around the corner, and we are excited to highlight insights from our Bronze Sponsor, Passify, on the key automation trends and innovations that are shaping the future of container terminals.
As Europe’s leading event for container terminal operators, CTAC brings together more than 250 industry leaders each year for two days of invaluable discussion, innovation, and collaboration. Join us on 1–2 April 2025 at Las Arenas Balneario Resort in Valencia!
What key innovations or trends do you see shaping the future of container terminal automation?
Digitalisation and automation at the top of the list. Solutions that make operational processes more efficient are key to the future viability of container terminals, especially in regions with high personnel costs adaptability is essential, such as Northern Europe.
Artificial intelligence (AI) enables the optimisation of traffic flows and operational decisions. AI brings real added value, especially when it comes to forecasting, as delays to individual modes of transport in the global supply chain have an impact on the entire process. The better the processes can be planned, the more efficient container handling will be.
Digitised or automated gate and yard management is crucial for speeding up truck handling. Manual processes are cost-intensive in the long term, prone to errors and harbor security risks—a critical factor, especially in sensitive port areas.
Real-time data analysis significantly improves planning, forecasting and resource allocation. By digitally connecting all parties involved—such as haulage companies, terminals and truck drivers—and exchanging information via shared platforms, processes can be made noticeably more efficient.
READ: HHLA, passify digitalise truck handling at Hamburg terminals
How is your company contributing to the evolution of automation, equipment innovation, or operational optimisation in the industry?
We have specialised in the digitalisation of truck handling—an area that is still heavily characterised by manual, error-prone processes in many container terminals. As the founders of Passify, we come directly from terminal operations and have in-depth industry experience.
A key problem with traditional truck handling is the use of trucker cards (plastic cards)—these are easy to pass on and therefore represent a significant security risk. This is why we have developed an ISPS-compliant app that allows drivers to access the terminal securely and digitally using two-factor authentication.
Our aim is to digitally synchronise terminals, haulage companies and drivers in order to make handling more efficient, transparent and smooth. All three parties benefit from a shared digital ecosystem that standardises exchanges and optimises operational processes.
The next logical step is now to scale the system across the board, because a standardised system will unfold its full benefits when as many locations as possible are integrated. We are currently live at five locations, including all three HHLA terminals in Hamburg.
Why should industry professionals attend CTAC Europe 2025, and what insights can they expect to gain?
The trade fair offers a unique platform for exchange and active networking. Even if you are not in the same segment or with identical goals, the exchange of experiences, challenges and solutions is incredibly valuable. Ultimately, we all have a common goal: to make container terminals efficient, safe and future-proof – and that strengthens global logistics as a whole.
Digitalisation and automation have long been key topics in the industry, especially in logistics, where efficiency and competitiveness are crucial. If you want to keep your finger on the pulse of innovation, this trade fair is the place to be. You will find a concentration of new ideas, practical solutions and a direct line to industry colleagues.
For industry experts, the trade fair is an opportunity to obtain specific information: Which technologies are currently available? Which of them fits my challenges? The range of solutions presented is enormous. At the same time, we as exhibitors also benefit from direct dialogue, because the better we understand the specific challenges faced by terminals and logistics players, the better we can develop our solutions.
Passify synchronises, simplifies, and secures truck handling processes for drivers, terminals, and logistics facilities, providing significant benefits across the supply chain. By digitising manual processes and reducing waiting times, Passify boosts operational efficiency and ensures smoother workflows.
Passify is currently live at five locations, including three major container terminals in the Port of Hamburg and a Romanian Hinterland Terminal, and has already handled 400,000+ trucks since its first go-live in 2024.
